Beirut: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates Badr Abdelatty highlighted Egypt's dedication to engaging with all Lebanese factions to uphold Lebanon's security and sovereignty. He emphasized the importance of respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and maintaining the integrity of the Lebanese state.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty reinforced this commitment during a press conference after meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Beirut. This marked his fourth visit to Lebanon in 18 months, reflecting Egypt's active involvement in Lebanese affairs and the significance that its leadership, government, and people place on Lebanon's stability.
Abdelatty noted that his visit to Lebanon was based on direct instructions from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, and aligned with a phone conversation between Presidents El-Sisi and Aoun that reviewed regional and Lebanese developments. He stressed Egypt's resolve to support efforts that reinforce Lebanon's security and stability, including backing the Lebanese president's initiative to ensure arms are controlled by legitimate state institutions.
He reiterated Egypt's efforts to preserve Lebanon's unity and territory and to achieve an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territories as per UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Abdelatty called for the cessation of all Israeli violations and emphasized Egypt's full support for Lebanon's government and its engagement with all Lebanese society segments.
Abdelatty expressed Egypt's full backing for President Aoun and his initiatives, including those announced during Lebanon's Independence Day. He emphasized the need for Israeli withdrawal and the importance of reinforcing state authority over all national territory.
He stated that Egypt is making comprehensive efforts to shield Lebanon from threats, following direct instructions from President El Sisi, as Lebanon's security is closely tied to Egypt's own. Abdelatty assured that Egypt is leveraging its regional and international relations to promote calm and implement the ceasefire agreement, supporting President Aoun's balanced approaches.
Highlighting the historical ties between Egypt and Lebanon, Abdelatty noted that Egypt's efforts are genuine and aimed at maintaining Lebanon's sovereignty. He affirmed Egypt's commitment to defusing tensions and using its diplomatic network to protect Lebanon from risks.
Commenting on Israeli attacks in Beirut, Abdelatty expressed concern for Lebanon's security and reiterated Egypt's condemnation of any violations of Lebanese sovereignty. He called for political solutions over military action, warning that force will not bring stability.
Abdelatty highlighted the importance of continuous diplomatic engagement and open channels with all parties to mitigate escalation and promote political solutions. He stressed the significance of respecting Lebanon's state authority and the Lebanese army's efforts to maintain control and sovereignty.
Abdelatty concluded by emphasizing Egypt's commitment to preserving Lebanon's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, urging all parties to act responsibly to ease tensions and support the country's authority.